Contents
March Issue 85
Features Celebrate Grover Sassman Life 6 Appalachian Backroads 12 Are We Having FunYet? 19 27 The Great American Motorcycle Show 33 The Art of James Silk
Columns
6
James “Nefarious” Gladstone-Respect 14 JP’s Ramblin On 27 Craven Moorehead-Random Thoughts 47 Christian Motorcycle Association 48
Departments Contents Page 2 Ride Safe, Ride Smart-Passing 10 Born To Ride Events-www.BornToRide.com 42 Born To Ride Kids 48
Reports
38
Shadow Warrior Riders 37 Movie Review-Psychomania 38 Matt Danielson-Law Report 40 Craig Can Fix It! 45
On The Cover Grover Sassaman Veteran, Motorcycle Legend Gone But Not Forgotten Story By: Wayne Crenshaw and The Macon Telegraph
Ad Index
AAA IFC Angel City 23 BornToRide.com 26 Biker Business For Sale 32 BTR App 4 BTR Facebook 36 BTR Heat Up 45 BTR Lifestyle 32 BTR Magazine Subscription 41 BTR Radio 32 BTR YouTube 36 Central Georgia Police Ride 9 Cigelske Law Firm 49 Creative RV 24 Cycle World of Athens 17 HD Fraziers 5 HD Smoky Mountain 15 HD Thunder Tower West 31, BC LawBike.com 1 Leather Lid Inserts 41 Leather, Love & Freedom 41 Leesburg Bike Fest 16 LT. Cliff Rouse Memorial Ride 11 Media Design Shop 36 Motorcycle Law Group 39 Progressive Insurance 3 ProRider Ken Anderson 10 Tiny Trailer Nation 46 Thunder Beach 18 Toys Wanted 41 Wanted GI Joe 41 Wife Swap-Now Casting 41
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CELEBRATE GROVER SASSAMAN’S LIFE
Georgia’s Oldest Harley Dealer
Inside the Harley-Davidson dealership in Macon, World War II veteran Grover Sassaman puttered around on a mobility scooter, but his other ride is way cooler. He drove in that morning on his 2010 Road King with a sidecar, adding to the more than one million miles he has logged on motorcycles since he first rode one when he was 11 years old. Sassaman, 98 , is the oldest active Harley-Davidson dealer in the world. He is BTR 6 | BORNTORIDE.COM
the first person to show up at work every morning, typically getting there at least an hour before anyone else. He has no plans of retiring. “I enjoy talking to my customers,” he said as he sat in a lounge area among the many gleaming bikes in the showroom. “I have customers who come from everywhere. They want to meet me. They say I’m a legend, but I tell them I’m just Grover.” Local News at Your Fingertips
Get unlimited digital access for just $3.99 a month to #ReadLocal anytime, on any device. GET OFFER In World War II he served in the Marines in the Pacific. He was an aircraft mechanic in Gregory “Pappy” Boyington’s famed Black Sheep Squadron, which fought the Japanese in the Solomon Islands. Boyington shot down 28 Japanese planes and was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Special Thanks to Wayne Crenshaw & Macon Telegraph for the Story & Photos
But for Veterans Day this year, it’s not his buddies in the war Sassaman is remembering. He has sold many motorcycles to area law enforcement agencies, and this year he is feeling a kinship with the sacrifice that law enforcement officers make. Four law enforcement officers across Middle Georgia have died in the line of duty this year, including two Peach County deputies who were shot Sunday. It has been making Sassaman think of the death he
saw during the war. “It’s disheartening the way these police officers are getting killed,” he said. “There’s no reason or rhyme for this going on.” He blames it on a lack of discipline in youths today. “I had to walk a chalk line when I was growing up,” he said. “My dad didn’t hesitate laying the switch to me.” His father was a college professor. “He could have never taught in this day’s environment,” Sassaman said. “They would
have had him locked up.” STILL CARRIES JAPANESE SHRAPNEL Sassaman was awarded a Purple Heart during World War II. It happened on March 2, 1945. He and his crew mates heard the distinctive sound of an approaching Japanese plane, and they jumped into foxholes. The plane dropped an anti-personnel bomb designed to spray shrapnel. Some of that shrapnel found its way into Sassaman’s hole and struck him in
The Sassaman family have owned and actively operated Harley-Davidson dealerships since 1947
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his hip and leg. He still carries it in his body. “When I go to the airport, they act like I’m a criminal,” he said. But he continued to fight in the war. He was preparing to get on an aircraft carrier for the invasion of the Japanese mainland when the word came that the atomic bomb had been dropped. The war was soon over, and Sassaman was headed back home. He went right away to the Harley-Davidson factory and soon had a dealership in Indiana. It was a one-man operation, he said, and he grew it by foregoing any extravagant spending on himself. “Anything I made I put it right back into the business,” he said. “I kept on putting it BTR 8 | BORNTORIDE.COM
back into the business.” He eventually got a dealership in Lakeland, Florida, and in 1957 he relocated to Macon. He has been here ever since. Buster Hickman, a Harley rider, said Sassaman is well-known in Harley circles. “He is always passionate not just about people who come there to buy bikes but he is always passionate about representing our community very well,” he said. Hickman said he knows a few Harley riders in their 80s, but he didn’t know of anyone else over 90 who is still riding. He also said Sassaman is a ladies man. “His main goal in life right now is to make all women smile,” he said. Sassaman’s mobility scooter is only
temporary. He can get up and walk, but he has been using the scooter due to some issues with his knee. He credits his good health to having never drunk alcohol or smoked in his life — and to riding motorcycles. “It’s as relaxing as it can be,” he said. “You are closer to the environment.” He said he’s had just one accident, and it was a minor one. He wasn’t injured and his bike didn’t even go down. He credited his safety record to staying alert at all times. “You’ve got to be alert, even when you are driving a car,” he said. He is gone but will never be forgotten. His Legend lives on Forever. RIP-Grover Sassaman.
Special Thanks to Wayne Crenshaw & Macon Telegraph for the Story & Photos
PASSING OTHER VEHICLES
Search: Traveling again along a two-lane state highway, you approach a slow-moving vehicle and make a decision to pass. Passing on a motorcycle is not substantially different than passing in a car, though (as is always the case on a motorcycle) taking steps to ensure your own visibility is more important when you are riding. Take every possible step to be sure the driver you are overtaking is aware of you. Evaluate: Make sure there is a good opportunity to pass. Check for oncoming traffic, and gauge whether or not there is sufficient clear roadway available to complete the passing maneuver safely. Execute: Once you have determined that it is safe to pass: move to the left portion of the lane, at a safe following distance. This will increase your line of sight, and also make you more visible. Signal and perform a final traffic check, remembering to glance in your mirrors and also make a head check to look for traffic approaching from behind. Move into the left lane and accelerate. Select a lane position that maintains a sufficient space cushion between you and the car you are passing, but that also leaves you the space to avoid hazards that may appear in the oncoming lane. Signal to return to your lane, and check your mirrors and perform a head check to make sure you won’t cut off the car you just passed before returning to your lane. Resume SEEing. For more information go to www.msf-usa.org
A few days before Christmas on December 23, 2010, Don Cheek, who was the Dougherty County, Georgia, Chief of Police, received the call that no chief wants to hear. One of his officers, Lt. Cliff Rouse, had been killed in a shootout while responding to an armed robbery. “It was one of the worst news of my life,” said Chief Cheek. The following year, a group of supporters for the family initiated the first Lt. Cliff Rouse Memorial Ride in honor of Cliff. Lt. Rouse was known for his willingness to assist others, who numerous times gave his time and occasionally his day off to escort motorcycle events and charity rides; 4 to 5000 riders from all over the State and surrounding States came to pay tribute to Cliff and his family at this first run in 2011. What started as a tribute to a fallen
officer has continued and turned into an annual event each year. Initially, it was to raise money for the Rouse family. Now the ride has extended to raising money for Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS), a national organization that responds to the needs of the families of fallen law enforcement officers. “COPS was the first group that responded to give the family both emotional and financial support,” said Don, now retired. The Rouse Ride donations and auction had grown significantly and has raised more money than any other local motorcycle event. In 2015, a new policy was initiated by the Committee members to release some of the money to assist the families of Georgia fallen officers. Money raised is presented not only to the Georgia COPS foundation but to the families of fallen officers killed each year
in the line of duty in Georgia. Members of the Georgia Blue Knights III and American Legion Riders ride throughout the State and personally present the families’ monetary and honorarium presentations. That is a story of emotion in itself. The Lt. Cliff Rouse Memorial Ride not only remembers the sacrifice of Cliff and his family, the COPS foundation, but also the memory of all Georgia officers killed in the line of duty. The 10th Anniversary will ride from the American Legion Post 30 at 2916 Gillionville Rd. on March 21, 2020, with registration at 9 AM. There will be food, music, 50/50 and an auction, with a raffle for a commemorative 1st and 10th Anniversary AR-15 as well as a .380 pistol. More info can be found email: alpost30@mediacommbb.net and Facebook: Lt. Cliff Rouse Memorial Ride.
Paul “Gadget” Murray
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Nefarious James “Respect” What the hell makes you think you’re so special that everyone should give you their respect? Tell me how you’ve earned it? Everybody wants it. There are those who think they deserve it. There are those who demand it. There are those who think it should just be given to them. For those in the lifestyle, y’all know what I’m talking about. I truly do believe many of you out there reading this article have no freaking clue what true respect really is as it relates to the motorcycle world. There are some things about respect you need to understand. You can’t buy it in a store or order it on the internet. That’s not how to get Respect. Real, true Respect is earned. And I’m not referring to faux respect like That fake crap ya get for doing more shots at the bar than the next guy. I’m talking about the kind of respect that’s truly earned through the way one carries himself or herself through the deeds and actions they perform during their life. The type of man or woman who is a person of integrity and of their word emulating those qualities we all seek. Nowadays it seems there are just too many wannabes and punks out there who think they could throw on a rag and all of a sudden they deserve respect. This goes a little off-topic, but it is in parallel and a good example of how respect is earned. I’ve heard and read so many times people say, “I would prospect for a club, but I won’t be someone’s bitch, or I won’t prospect for someone because I don’t like being told what to do.” To those people who say they wouldn’t prospect for those reasons, I want to extend my personal thanks. Why? Because you already displayed you wouldn’t make the cut in any club. Old school clubs are intended to be the extreme example of Brotherhood. Those seeking membership should be willing to do anything for their club and their Brothers. It’s like saying you want to go into the military but you’re not going to go to basic training. Being in an established club, a real old school established motorcycle club is not for BTR 14 | BORNTORIDE.COM
everyone. I can respect a person’s decision to realize if it’s not for them. If they do decide to attempt membership, they need to realize that Prospecting is an important part of club culture. It’s not about being someone’s Bitch. It’s a test of character. You can only fake shit for so long but
“Examples are single parents who struggle to keep food in their kid’s bellies and a roof over their heads”
eventually the true you will come out. That’s who the Brothers of that club want to know. It’s time for existing brothers in that club to get to know who you are and what you’re made of. And if you make it to probate, you get to know about your possible future club, its members and its traditions and values. That’s earning respect. It’s paid for in blood sweat and tears. It’s a priceless experience you will never forget. Good or bad, it will always be there. That’s the old way. The old school way. Not the way of today. But that’s another future article. The beauty of respect is anybody with the right character and heart can earn true respect. It doesn’t take being in a club or even riding a motorcycle to get it. There are many out there who have earned it
and deserve it through the things they have accomplished and the deeds they have done for others. And with that said, I thank them. Examples are single parents who struggle to keep food in their kid’s bellies and a roof over their heads, I have enormous respect for them. No easy accomplishment. We have firefighters, our military, children’s guardians, and even the people who clean out the porta-johns after a huge motorcycle rally. All thankless jobs performed by people worthy of respect. Then you have those out there who just make up a patch with their buddies some night and decide they are now an MC displaying zero respect for the culture and lifestyle they so desperately want to be a part of. How in the world would that ever get them any respect? Again, this will be in a future article. I guess my point is this. As people living and residing in this beautiful country of ours, we have the freedom to act as we choose. We are allowed to ride our bikes and be the biggest asses we want to be, or we can do what our forefathers inspired for us to be. A country comprised of men and women who the world would envy. To be a country everyone on this planet would want to emulate. A country everyone would want to be a part of. A country comprised of citizens who would be the example of those worthy of respect that would lead the world by example. Everything starts with one thing moving forward. Be that one thing and watch the world following in your footsteps. Don’t be the guy with the middle finger in the air of every picture. Be the guy giving the thumbs up showing we are worthy of everyone’s respect. We make the difference. All of us. Old School ways included respect and integrity. Don’t say the words if you’re not going to live by them. These articles are written to invoke thought. They are to hopefully make you look outside the box. In the end, what you do is your decision and yours alone.
James “Nefarious” Gladstone
Got something to say to James? Let Us Know Your Thoughts: info@BornToRide.com
Images and text by Scott and Carla Odell I am always scouring the internet for information and stories about the greatest road race on earth. There is a lot of it out there and it keeps my cravings down a little, but the need to experience the sounds and sights is a different story. I can go to a lot of tracks and see motorcycles racing in the USA, but one thing is missing‌sidecars! I have never seen sidecars race in the USA in my life time. I punched in a few choice words on a Facebook search and low and behold, South Florida Sidecar Racing popped up! BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 19
I went straight to the page and contacted Tony Doukas and was on the phone with him in just a few minutes. He told me about the SFSR, the organization that has been racing in South Florida for a year. “You need to call and talk to Peter Essaff, he is the one that got me into sidecars,” said Tony. Of course, I called Peter and within minutes of our conversation I knew that we were destined to meet…this man has raced at the Isle of Man! It was a no-brainer to go see him race and before you know it, Carla and I were at Palm Beach International Raceway for the weekend to dive into the sidecar culture first hand. In the sea of 2 wheel race bikes were the scattered tents and trailers with sidecars. We found Peter Essaff and had a chat with him. “I have been racing sidecars since 1977, first as a passenger and then as a driver. I have won National championships with the
AMA over the years and I have traveled all across the country racing sidecars. In 2015, a Canadian team went to the Isle of Man and they didn’t have a lot of luck with the weather or qualifying. In 2016 I got a call from them asking if I would drive their sidecar. “Are you nuts?” was my reply. After an hour later and a few beers I called them back and said yes. I made 4 trips to the IOM and drove a rental car to try and memorize all the turns and nuances of the famous mountain course. I qualified and actually made 21 laps, yes 21 laps around the course! It was a time I will never forget!” Peter exclaimed. Let me tell you what kind of achievement that really was! He finished race 1 in 27th place out of 41 sidecars. The number 1 sidecar of Dave Molyneux did not finish, Tim Reeves number 5 DNF, the Birchall brothers number 2 DNF! In race 2 Peter finished in 28th and Wayne Lockey DNF. Peter would eventually buy Wayne’s 2009 Ireson and bring it to the USA.
“
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For more info go to www.ThunderByTheBay.org • 941-229-7774
”
“It’s a rocket ship!” Peter said with a big smile. “I call it Amazing Grace and it is the last Ireson built for the Isle of Man,” said Essaff. I ended up talking to almost every sidecar team and I knew right away that they were a very close knit family of racers. They came from all corners of the United States and the world. Boris Stroud came all the way from Scotland and has a big part in getting sidecars racing in the states. He saw racing in his homeland in Northern Scotland go from 2 sidecars to over 40 of them! Boris is dedicated to the sport and so is his wife Bonnie, who was racing in the passenger seat with Butch Nelson on another bike. Let’s get this straight, this sport is for everyone. Tony Doukas’s wife, Lisa, races in the chair position and was part of their championship. Nicole was also in the chair this weekend for the first time. Paul Koehler drove down from New Hampshire for the race and with blind faith had first timer, Ali, from Orlando as a passenger. She was all over the bike and they actually did quite well. “When you are in tune with the bike and are drifting 3 wheels through the corners, it is the most fun I have ever had, “ said John who was a passenger on Skippy’s sidecar. Nick, aka “Skippy” has been into sidecars for 10 years and has had Peter Essaff as his mentor and guru for most of it. Wendel Aguilar came all the way from California with
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I came across these words on Facebook that have been added to by many people. The life that many will not understand, but we do! We own a sidecar because of a personal life choice. One day when we are very old and cannot ride, it will be in our garage as a trophy of our memories. We have met people who taught us something and have the same spirit. We now meet people who get wisdom from us. We get wet. a couple of sidecars and is originally from the Philippines . He had We get cold. a lot of work to do on Saturday , but he got the bike on track for We have been hot. practice. We have been afraid What has truly help get sidecars off the ground was Tony West We have fell and we have stood up. and the FMRRA ( Florida Motorcycle Road racing Association) They gave them the opportunity to become part of the race series We have even hurt ourselves. when there were no sidecars. The FMRRA is the most advanced We have laughed out loud with the wind. series in the US and was created for motorcycle racers by motor- We have spoken a thousand times to ourselves and cycle racers. Everything is focused on the racers interest. They still do. have reduced the cost of racing, have the latest technology, and We have shouted with joy like madmen. is a place for future racers to call home. The overall vibe is like And yes‌sometimes we cry. having one big family and everyone is helping others.The bulk of We go out with frustration inside and come home the races are at PBIR, Homestead and Roebbling ,Georgia just with peace in our heart. outside of Savannah. Go to www.fmrra.com and check out the schedule. If you are looking for a great weekend of racing and We spend money that we don’t have, gave up many fun, go to one of the races. things, but it is all worth it. Our bikes are who we are. The future of sidecar racing is in good hands in Florida. Tony Doukas of Punta Gorda is building mini-GP sidecars for kids 5-12 We love our friends and the joy of great people and years of age as we type these words. They will race on the small motorcycles. track at PBIR and gain experience before they move up to the big May the angels guard our travels , for they know the ones.and Peter will still be giving advice to everyone. We have race ahead of us. Scott and Carla Odell made a lot of new friends because of sidecars, it is addictive.
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“The Greatest Show On Earth,” that’s what I think it should be called. But I’m told that some other show or another has already claimed that title. Oh well. I still think that show promoter Rhonda Sodel really does put on the Greatest and Largest Motorcycle Show anywhere. And every year it gets bigger and better. I always get overwhelmed just walking through the doors and into the show.
“I always get overwhelmed just walking through the doors and into the show. Never really knowing where to start”
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Never really knowing where to start. Or which way to begin. It’s that big! If anyone ever mentions to me again, that motorcycle sales are down, or the enthusiasm for our sport is fading, I’ll know that they haven’t joined the crowds at our annual show in Atlanta. You just gotta be there and see for yourself--the crowds roaming about, sitting on bikes, buying accessories and clothing, watching the BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 27
shows. It’s amazing! A people watchers paradise! Young, old, middle-aged … there is something at the show for everyone. Now the reasons that I came to the show this year, were #1-to take pictures and share photos of the show with you, #2-see all my old friends from the Atlanta area and beyond, meet new friends (I never knew that I didn’t know), and #3-to find some lightweight, summer riding gloves. Mission accomplished! After deciding to do a complete tour of the show, I started on the far right side of the room and chose to go isle by isle, right BTR 28 | BORNTORIDE.COM
to left, so not to miss anything or anyone. Halfway down the first aisle, I got diverted and wandered over to the second aisle. Diverted again, more wandering, more interesting displays, more stuff to see, more people to meet ... you get it. I got lost, I wasn’t following my plan. Time to re-group. So, I decided to look for my gloves. And guess who I found? Omar, my new friend, working at the Highway Leathers display booth. I explained to him just what I was looking for, and he showed me just what I was looking for. I like it when things work out like that. Omar will be on my list of
people to see next year at the show. I’m gonna start my list of leather products to purchase now. And start saving my money, cause by next year the list could get pretty long. Great products, and even better customer service, won me over at Highway Leathers. Thanks, Omar! When I told my boss-man Ron all about my experience, I found out that he had been a customer of Omar for years, in fact, that’s where he purchased his current leather jacket. He’d been there, done that. (Maybe that’s why he the boss!) Now on to the rest of the show. ...
Bikes, Trikes, Electric Bikes, Antiques, Customs, a BMX Stunt Show, and what’s this? Marc, from Creative RV, had a huge display with some of the greatest RV/Bike Haulers anywhere. What a way to enjoy long-distance relaxed traveling, all while including your favorite ride … your bike! You gotta check out Creative RV here in Atlanta. Ask for Marc, and maybe he’ll take you out back and show you his custom Harley. Whatta guy! WOW, Motorcycles had huge display including just about any type of bike you could ask for, including the new Zero
“I had so much fun this year that I’d like to go back for more. Right Now! Food, drink, and fellowship. Whatta show” electric bikes. WOW, manager Candy was on hand to answer any and all questions. Staff members Mike and “Safari” were available to show you any kind of bike you
were interested in. What if you had a trade? Brandon was on hand to give you a fair price for your trade. A complete motorcycling experience, all at the show! JB Walker’s Duo-Ride band, with Rob Grater, provided entertainment both Saturday and Sunday at the show. A relaxing way to take a break from all the activity, rest your mind, regroup, and then continue on taking part in the show. There was really so much to see and do at the show, that I can barely scratch the surface in this writing. I mean, if I were going to name names, Steve Murrin-The
For more info on The Great American Motorcycle Show • www.natcshows.com • 770-279-9899
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Original Biker Lawyer, Paul Yaffe from Bagger Nation, Cory Souza Originals, the crew from Camtech Custom Baggers, Challenger Trikes, Hellbender HarleyDavidson, Indian Motorcycles of Marietta, Jesse Spade Designs, R&R Trikes, Rock City Cycles, Wooly’s Cycles of Atlanta (I didn’t see parts man Dan there, where were you Dan?), Zac Brown Customs, Baxter’s Garage, and Pro Twin Performance …and that’s just a small sampling of the big names … there were dozens and dozens more, the list goes on and on. BTR 30 | BORNTORIDE.COM
“Promoter Rhonda Sodel really does put on the Greatest and Largest Motorcycle Show anywhere. Every year it gets bigger and better”
The place was PACKED with bikes and everything to do with bikes and riding bikes and apparel for bikers. I forgot to mention Hawg Halters. Sorry if I left the name of your display out. There were just too many names to fit in this column. I had so much fun this year that I’d like to go back for more. Right Now! Food, drink, and fellowship. Whatta show! So right now I’m planning to be the first in line for next year’s show. See y’all there! And remember, “Go fast ... you’ll get there!” Until Next Time, JP
For more info on The Great American Motorcycle Show • www.natcshows.com • 770-279-9899
Hello, Born To Ride readers, My name is James Silk. I’m a self-taught artist and drew a lot of choppers when I was very young. Motorcycles have always fascinated me, but I’ve never owned a Harley or a large bike. My father retired from the NYPD. He rode a 1947 Indian Motorcycle with the sidecar for many years while working on the force. I get inspiration from the older bikes, riders and beautiful women. Hopefully, that shows in some of these pieces I drew here. My work has been published in Pethouse magazine other publications and now Born To Ride which I’m really excited about! I’m hoping I will get more inspiration from you guys and keep contributing to this great magazine. I hope you enjoy my art and maybe I’ll see you at a few rallies. Cheers! BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 33
“ I GET INSPIRATION FROM THE OLDER BIKES, RIDERS AND BEAUTIFUL WOMEN.” -JAMES SILK
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Follow James Silk: www.facebook.com/james.silk.568
Got something to say to James? Let Us Know Your Thoughts: info@BornToRide.com
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I love hearing how folks became part of the Born To Ride Family. Today, you’re going to read about a long-time BTR family member, Chance Showell, and the magnificent work his MC is doing for veterans.
When did you meet Ron and Debbie? “I think it was 1995. I was doing Tech Tip of the Week, sponsored by the local Tampa Harley-Davidson dealer. I had experience doing TV and radio, so it came naturally for me. In fact, Ron always called me, “One Take Chance” because I always got everything done in one take. Of course, over the years, with various events they hosted and rides that I put on, we always networked together in the motorcycle community.” For the past three years, Chance has been a part of Shadow Warrior Riders MC. “We are an incorporated, non-for-profit motorcycle club which is currently Nationwide. The reason for starting the club is because of what I do for a living; working for the federal government after the attacks from September 11, 2001. Then in 2012 when the attack in Benghazi occurred, that triggered another event for our club to work with. Club Brothers, Boon, Tig, and Tanto were all contractors working in Benghazi the night of the attacks. They repelled the waves of attacks for 13 hours – which is where the movie, “13 Hours Secret Soldiers of Benghazi” came about. The film follows six members of the Annex Security Team
who fought to defend the American diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya after waves of attacks by militants on September 11, 2012.” Established as a non-profit, LLC Motorcycle Club, The Shadow Warrior Riders MC is for Contractors, Military, Veterans, Public Servants, and Gold Star Families. Chance and the SWRMC work hard every year raising funds for two notfor-profit organizations. “We work once a year doing a fundraiser for two foundations; Tanto has a foundation called the “14th Hour” and Tig has a foundation called, “Beyond the Battlefield.” Both are licensed, verified and vetted, 501c-3 entities. They work with veterans and first responders. Anyone that is a public servant or veteran in need of their services can apply for help. The MC itself is not a 501c-3. We are incorporated in each state. We don’t solicit funds from people. When a non-profit organization contacts us for help, that’s when we work to pull an event together. Over the past two years, we’ve raised over $140,000 for these two non-profits.” March 28 is a big event they are having where they will be raising funds for K9 Line. “K9 Line Inc. provides service dogs and the training for these dogs free of charge. The minimum cost to train a dog is $7,000. To train a seeing-eye dog can be upwards of $20,000. K9 Line hires only veterans to train the dogs and teach the veteran or first responder.” This event will be held at the Windermere Recreation Area, 11465 Park Ave, Windermere, FL. This is a great opportunity for you
to come out, meet Chance and the SWRMC, seeing first-hand, all the good they do for their fellow veterans. What Chance does is not a one-man thing. “With Brothers all over the country, they all support our events by getting sponsors and donations. One of my brothers in Texas is good friends with the VanZants (38 Special, Lynyrd Skynyrd) He is working on having them come to play at our events. They are huge patriots and great guys that support us and all we do.” In my life, especially with Born To Ride and the biker communities I support, I am fortunate to have met some of the most amazing, humble, and respectful veterans. I’m very thankful to share with you that I have met another – Chance Showell. His respect for our military and veterans is impressive. His loyalty to our country is moving. His dedication to the Shadow Warrior Riders MC and their mission speaks for itself with the selfless determination and commitment they all show in taking care of their fellow veteran Brothers and Sisters. Thank you, Chance, for sharing your event with the readers of Born To Ride magazine! Who: Chance Showell What: Shadow Warrior Riders MC Web: ShadowWarriorMC.com Event: “Working Like Dogs” Warriors Helping Warriors Date: Saturday, March 28, 2020 Windermere Recreation Area 11465 Park Ave Windermere, FL 34786 Susan Hurst
Chopporama, a Born To Ride Media Presentation. For more info: Facebook Chopporama BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 37
the Devil to have eternal life. His soul is assumed to be part of the deal, as there is a tot in a basket screaming as Mum signs the deal. All this weirdness is further accelerated by a frog. I dunno? It’s just strange. We’ll get to the Frog—plus stones thing later. On one particular day, Tom and his gang decide to ride through town and wreak havoc on the locals. They ride through a mall square like setting, tipping over shopping carts, baby carriages, and other things until the Bobbies arrive. A chase ensues and most of the members escape the long arm of the law. Tom hell-bent on killing himself rides his motorcycle through a guardrail and into the river. In a strange ritual, Tom is buried sitting upright on his motorcycle near the stones. His gang makes wreaths of flowers and other artifacts, which are buried with him as a guy plays the guitar and sings. Mum’s weird butler buries a frog necklace with him and all the other stuff. Later, a motorist breaks down near the stones, and has the horror of seeing Tom ride his motorcycle out of the grave. He of course is struck by the speeding Triumph and assumed dead. Tom then proceeds to call home from a local public house, and speaks to the butler and his Mum. Later he kills several people from the pub, and escapes into the night. The next day he arrives at the stones where the gang is trying to figure out who stole Tom’s body, and motorcycle. Thinking Tom is the thief, the gang begins questioning him and one of the members sneaks up to stab him in the back. This is where they realize that Tom had really come back from the dead. Seeing how cool it is to be immortal, the rest of the gang sets out to be just like Tom and each one kills him or herself in increasingly more bizarre ways. All succeed but Tom’s girlfriend, who after a failed attempt, really wants to live a normal life. In the end Tom gives her the ultimatum to join him in the ‘living dead.’ While she is deciding what to do with the gun he has handed her, his lovely Mum performs a ritual which turns her into a frog, and the rest of the ‘dead gang’ into stones while she shoots Tom. Sound confusing? Yeah, it does to me too! I guess the moral of the story is: Don’t feel too froggy, cause you might get stoned.
This month Born To Ride reviews the 1971 film “Psychomania.” If you like old British horror films, then this one’s for you. Maybe I should have said horrible old British films. Either way, Psychomania has a lot to like or dislike, depending on your level of intoxication. The film centers around the life of “Tom” who is the leader of a ‘motorcycle gang’ called the Living Dead. Tom and his ‘gang’ ride authentic period Triumph motorcycles,
and meet in a field with several large vertical stones which somewhat resemble Stonehenge. When they gather there, they often discuss what they will do in the particular day, but there is always talk of committing suicide, so they can live forever. Where could they get such an unsavory idea? From Tom’s occultist Mum of course! In a dream like sequence, Tom has the pleasure of seeing his lovely Mum sign a deal with
BTR 38 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Do you have a favorite Biker Movie we don’t have? Let us know: info@borntoride.com
The Phantom Movie Review
Rider Training & Education Contributes Little to Motorcycle Safety By Matt Danielson, The Motorcycle Law Group
(According to U.S. Safety Experts) Many reputable groups within the highway safety community have taken the position that motorcycle rider training and education contributes little to motorcycle safety. It is their position that rider education does not have a discernable impact on motorcycle safety, and universal helmet laws are the only reliable method of reducing motorcycle fatalities. Do not take my word for it. Here is what the experts have to say: “While basic rider courses teach important skills, the effectiveness of training as a safety countermeasure to reduce motorcycle crashes is unclear.” (Traffic Safety Facts, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – March 2010) “There is no scientific evidence that motorcycle rider training reduces crash risk and is an adequate substitute for an all-rider helmet law.” (Lethal Loopholes, Advocates for Highway & Auto Safety – January 2015) “Laws requiring all motorcyclists to wear BTR 40 | BORNTORIDE.COM
helmets are the only strategy proved to be effective in reducing motorcyclist fatalities.” (Motorcycle Safety: Increasing Federal Funding Flexibility and Identifying Research Priorities Would Help Support States’ Safety Efforts, U.S. Government Accountability Office – November 2012) “Helmets are the only safety measure proven to save lives.” (Motorcycle Safety: How to Save Lives and Save Money, Center for Disease Control and Prevention – June 2012) Before I start to get angry emails concerning the value of motorcycle helmets, let me be clear that my purpose in writing this has nothing to do with riders wearing or not wearing motorcycle helmets. I am merely questioning a position shared by many within the highway safety community that dismisses the value of rider education. Let’s take a look at statistics which can be found on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website: Between
2005 and 2015, the latest year for which we have complete data at this point, motorcycle registrations have increased 38 percent nationwide while motorcycle fatalities per 100,000 registered motorcycles have decreased 21 percent. Additionally, motorcycle vehicle miles traveled have increased 88 percent during that same timeframe, while motorcycle fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled have decreased 42 percent. Is there an explanation for this sustained decrease in fatalities during this time frame? We know that between 2005 and 2015 not a single state promulgated a universal helmet law. In fact, one state, Michigan, repealed their universal helmet requirement. What else could be responsible for this decline? One possible explanation is that during this time frame there has been an increased emphasis on motorcycle training and education. In fact, 47 states currently have state legislated motorcycle training programs in place, with the remaining three having private programs. I believe that it is likely that having more motorcyclists trained to ride properly and defensively naturally leads to less crashes. So to all the training instructors out there please accept my hearty thanks for making motorcycling better for all of us. Matt Danielson is a partner at The Motorcycle Law Group, a personal injury law firm whose attorneys all ride motorcycles and practice in VA, NC, SC, GA, and WV. Matt has successfully represented clients in cases from simple property damage to complex multi-million dollar personal injury claims. He is also a lobbyist, adjunct professor and works with motorcycle rights organizations. To learn more about The Motorcycle Law Group, visit MotorcycleLawGroup.com. Matt Danielson McGrath, Danielson, Sorrell & Fuller The Motorcycle Law Group 1-800-321-8968 Matt@MotorcycleLawGroup.com MotorcycleLawGroup.com
Have you been injured in an Accident? Contact our Law Firm1-800-321-8968
Events www.B March 6 Opelika, AL Big Swamp H-D First 2020 Bike Night 5pm-9pm. We’ll be helping Big Swamp H-D kick of 2020 with a bang. 334-364-0400 March 6 Maryville, TN Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson Funky Monkey Fridays at The Shed with Shady Sadie. Free live music every Friday, call 865-977-1669 for more info. smh-d. com March 7 Tuscumbia, AL Riding for the Rea’s Poker Run 12pm Natchez Trace H-D. Poker run, raffles, live music, 50/50, T-shirts for sale, food, drinks, and more. 256-383-5814 March 7 Savannah, GA First Annual Spade Run 9am VFW Post 660. Come on out and Join the VFW Riders Post 660 as we join forces with Team Savannah for Veterans in support of a fellow local Veteran. 912-271-8655 March 7 Greenville, NC Book Run 10am Barnes and Noble. We will be conducting a Book Run to collect books for Frederick Douglass Elementary. 252-399-2357 March 7 Maryville, TN Cars, Coffee and Cycles 7am-11am Smoky Mountain H-D. Ride or Drive the first Saturday of the month to enjoy some coffee with old friends and make new ones. 865977-1669 March 7 Maryville, TN Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson Presents Drop Dead Dangerous & Rebel Railroad live. Call 865-977-1669 for time. smh-d.com March 8 Rock Hill, SC Rise & Ride 8:45am Cox’s H-D. Group breakfast run from BTR BTR4442| BORNTORIDE.COM | BORNTORIDE.COM
Send in your events toLetinfo@BornToRide.com, get noticed, be seenyour and next get results. Born To Ride market, promote, and advertise event; call 404
s, Rides & Destinations BornToRide.com/events Cox’s H-D taking the long way to the Waffle House. 803-3271183 March 12 Lithia Springs, GA H-D of Atlanta Bike Night 6pm-9pm. Live music, with The Riot, free beer and free food. 770-9441340, hdatlanta.com March 13 – March 15 Auburn, AL Bocephus Bash at Boggin’ on the Plains. Live music, rides, bounty hole, camping and more. Featuring national touring Hank Williams Jr. tribute band “All My Rowdy Friends”! Visit our Fb page for more info March 13 Maryville, TN Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson Funky Monkey Fridays at The Shed with Davis Mitchell. Free live music every Friday, call 865-977-1669 for more info. smh-d.com March 14 Athens, GA Cycle World of Athens Blessing of the Bike & Free Lunch Cookout 10am2pm. Come get Blessed for 2020. 706-548-3300 March 14 Hagan, GA Third Annual Rattlesnake Car and Motorcycle Show 8am Festival Grounds. Bring your whole family out to the show and have something for everybody to do. 912-7393820 March 14 Madison, TN Boswell’s Ring of Fire H-D Swap Meet 8am2pm. Old fashioned swap meet in the parking lot. Free burgers and cold drinks from 12pm until they are gone. 615-855-1001
March 15 Greenwood, SC BFC Lakelands 12th Annual Blessing of the Bikes 2pm Hobby Lobby. FREE EVENT and open to ALL RIDERS! 864-340-1136
11am-4pm. Pre-owned Tent Event, Bikini Bike Wash, 15% off H-D licensed products (3/21/20 only). For more info call 770-945-6001, fraziersharleydavidson.com
March 19 Jackson, AL Ed’s Third-Thursday Bike Night 6pm-9pm Ed’s Drive-in. Join the Clarke Washington Motorcycle Riders for their first bike night of 2020. 251-744-2619
March 21 Lawrenceville, GA Barbara Hamilton Memorial Poker Run 9:30am. It’s a Poker Run Everyone! Visit our Fb page for more info.
March 19 - March 22 Forkland, AL Bama Bike Fest Spring Motorcycle Rally (contact us for directions). The deep south’s wildest motorcycle event. 334-341-2301 March 20 Maryville, TN Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson Funky Monkey Fridays at The Shed with Sullivan Band. Free live music every Friday, call 865-977-1669 for more info. smh-d.com March 21 Moody, AL 4th Annual A Miracle Ride 8:30 Jack’s Restaurant. Ride will take a leisure route and make a stop at Bates H-D Sales, a fuel stop and then to the Moody Miracle League ball park. Visit our Fb page for more info March 21 Acworth, GA Ride 2 Read 9am - 12pm Brookwood Christian Language School. Please join us as we honor National Reading Month by hosting our 3rd annual charity motorcycle ride with Acworth’s very own Chef Henry Chandler leading the ride. brookwoodchristian.com. March 21 Buford, GA Frazier’s Harley-Davidson Spring Opener
March 21 Morrow, GA H-D Thunder Tower West Customer Appreciation Party Day (every 3rd Sat). Call to find out what exciting is going on 770-960-6000. thundertowerwest.com March 21 Savannah, GA 6th Annual Shop-Vendor Dice Run 10am Savannah H-D. This will be a shop-vendor dice run with our cycle shops and other supporter businesses as stops. 912-9250005 March 21 Statesboro, GA USMV MC Annual Charter Party 12pm Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 1089. Live music all night, food, drink, brotherhood, door prizes, and raffles. Visit our Fb page for more info. March 21 Charlotte, NC CMOU Spring Fling 11am-6pm American Legion. Live music, bike games, burnout competition, face painting & bounce house for kids, vendors, food, drinks & more. Visit our Fb page for more info March 21 Concord, NC 3rd Annual Chops, Rods & BBQ 12pm-4pm Brooklyn’s Pizzeria. Join us for a fun,
To submit andgreat view events even more events www.GeorgiaBikeEvents.com There are some coming up,visit for more events, go to www.BornToRide.com 4-788-3907.
family-friendly afternoon of cars, motorcycles and BBQ. Visit our Fb page for more info March 21 Fayetteville, NC NC CVMA 15-1 Memorial Ride and Dedication 8:30am-4pm Fort Bragg H-D. The 2020 Benefit Ride will be honoring the North Carolina Alpha/Omega Chapter of the CVMA. 910-864-1200 March 21 Murrells Inlet, SC Biker Thawout Party 7pm Suck Bang Blow. Dirty Grass Soul will be providing the live entertainment. 843-651-7960 March 21 Clarksville, TN Veterans MC Remember the Fallen Motorcycle Run 11:30am Mission BBQ. The ride is to honor and remember all of the great service men and women. Everyone is encouraged to bring photos, ID tags, name tabs or anything you would like, to remember the person you are honoring on this day. Visit our Fb page for more info March 21 Ethridge, TN EBGB Motorcycle Swap Meet 10am-4pm. Buy, sell, trade new and used motorcycle parts and accessories; $5 admission for all guests and FREE vendor spaces. 931-4770870 March 21 Maryville, TN Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson Outdoor Store Closeout Sale 11am. Additional 20% off clearance Dealer Apparel. Call for more info 865977-1669. smh-d.com March 21 Maryville, TN Smoky Mountain BORNTORIDE.COM| BTR BTR 45 BORNTORIDE.COM || BTR BORNTORIDE.COM 4543
www.BornToRide.com/events Harley-Davidson Ladies Garage Party (RSVP). Free food and drinks. Call for more info 865-977-1669. smh-d. com March 26 Athens, GA Cycle World of Athens Two Wheel Thursday Bike Night 6pm-9pm. Come out for one of NE Georgia’s BIGGEST bike nights. LIVE MUSIC and HOT FOOD options that change monthly. Raffles, $2 pints on draft served by the Blind Big Tavern girls and more. FREE EVENT that is open to ALL old bikers, new bikers, future bikers, non-bikers or anyone that wants to come hangout and party with us. 706-548-3300 March 26 - March 29 Tellico Plains, TN March Moto Madness - Mother Rally. marchMotoMadness.com March 27 – March 29 Guyton, GA SCVMA 25-2 Shamrockfest 2020 at Mossy Oak Music Park. Live Music and more. All proceeds raised will go to coastal area veterans. Visit our Fb page for more info March 27 - March 29 Kershaw, SC 2020 CPL Systems National Roadrace Series at Carolina Motorsports Park. Vintage Motorcycle Road Racing at its best. AHRMA.org. March 27 Maryville, TN Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson Funky Monkey Fridays at the Shed with Liquid Velvet. Free live music every Friday, call 865-9771669 for more info. smh-d.com March 28 – March 29 Birmingham, AL Barber Motorsports
Park Motorcycle Track Day. barberracingevents.com March 28 Oxford, AL Third Annual Arc Benefit Ride 9am-4pm Mt. Cheaha H-D. 256-493-9230
March 28 Jacksonville, NC Autism Ride 10am New River H-D. Motorcycle/car ride to raise autism awareness and funding for our local autism community. 910346-9997
Restaurant with live music. Visit our Fb page for more info.
March 29 Marietta, GA Blessing of the Bikes 10am First Presbyterian Church. Ministers Blessings March 28 March 28 10am for Riders & Bikes (free, Elgin, SC CVMA Spring Benefit Rain or Shine). 770-427-1889 Macon, GA ABATE Ride and Ride 9:30am Thunder Tower Fellowship 10am Tommy’s H-D. Multiple stops, DJ, door March 29 – April 2 Bakery. Ride to the Garden prizes, 50/50, food trucks, Patch in Barnesville, then to Perry, GA Mustang Nationals Doc Holliday’s in Griffin. abate. beverages and more. Benefits and Southeastern Cushman Veterans across the Midlands. Club Show at Georgia National org 803-928-3467 Fairgrounds. 903-873-2101 March 28 March 28 McCaysville, GA First Annual April 3 AMR Swap Meet Appalachian Inman, SC Iron Power Sports Marietta, GA Hellbender H-D Swap Meet 10am-4pm. Buy, Mountain Ride & Motorcycle Friday Night Live Garage Party Emporium. Bring your parts to sell, trade all power sports 5pm-8pm. 770-919-0000 stuff. 864-708-3556 buy, sell or trade. There will be food with a donation. 706April 4 March 28 584-2000 Blackshear, GA Easter Basket Rock Hill, SC Blessing of the Run 11:30am Legionnaires MC. Bikes 10am-11am Cox’s H-D. March 28 McDonough, GA Cherry Blos- Start your riding season with a Entertainment, dice roll, door prizes. 912-463-2058 som Run 10am- 3pm Macon’s blessing. 803-327-1183 Cherry Blossom Festival. April 4 March 28 – March 29 Police escorted ride on back Marietta, GA Bronco’s 8th Salisbury, NC Charlotte CBA roads. 770-490-2330 Swap Meet and Bike Show at Annual Poker Run 10am Brewster’s Neighborhood Bar & Rowen County Fairgrounds. March 28 Grille. 678-334-3530 Uvalda, GA Car, Truck & Bike 704-455-6245 Show 10am-2pm Downtown April 4 Uvalda. Awards are Top 25 & March 28 Plains, GA Open Car, Truck Lebanon, TN 18th Annual Best of Show. Registration $25 Spring Thaw Motorcycle Show and Motorcycle Show 9amper Vehicle. 912-687-2243 3pm. premiumcarshows.com & Swap Meet 10am-4pm Wilson County Expo Center. March 28 April 4 615-364-1828 Woodstock, GA Atlanta Short Savannah, GA Blue Knights Track Racing 11am Dixie March 29 Speedway. This banked track Ride Honoring Georgia’s Fallen provides a fast surface for true Odenville, AL Benefit Ride for 8am Savannah H-D. Police Steve Smith 9am Roadhouse heart-pumping bar-banging Escorted Ride through the race action. AmericanFlatTrack. Riders RC Clubhouse. Coastal Empire Honoring GA’s Ride ends at Margaret Mexican Fallen. 912-925-0005 com
Fuel Tank Rusty? Craig Can Fix It!
On a motorcycle, your fuel tank is the heart and soul of your machine. What do you do when it’s rusty, when it leaks? Radiator shop over-the-counter stuff? You know it doesn’t work, try anyways and guess what? It doesn’t work. I offer an alternative service for the inside of your tank, I remove all rust clean them out and coat them with epoxy tank liner that’s clear and works, I guarantee it with gasoline and even methanol. I even repair failed Kreme and Redkote liners. I save vintage tanks that leak, rusty tanks that nobody would ever think of using again. I turn them around quickly within three days Many of the leading motorcycle dealers use me on a regular basis, (Tampabay Powersports, Tampa Triumph, and Eurocycles Tampa) when they’re tired of cleaning carburetors they call Craig. Prices are 129 any tank any condition, three day turn around.
www.CraigPaintsBikes.com • 813-407-2226
Craven Moorehead More Random Thoughts for March
Floating along on a cloud of uncertainty, a writer passes high in the sky observing all that is going on beneath him. Or perhaps, I should not refer to myself as a writer but simply an observer. Either way, it is up to that person to decide what is reality and what is fantasy. Sometimes it is difficult to correctly identify between the two because things that aren’t real often come cloaked in an endless pile of substantiating facts and evidence that most people could not refute. Every situation requires careful examination, not just on the surface but all the way down to the core. As humans, we only see what we want to see anyway. So it often becomes a situation where we learn later that something is not authentic. This is not a fault just a fact. I am not addressing the specific issues; I am simply trying to suggest that people look deeply into situations and try to determine on their own whether the content or item is truly legitimate. Using care when checking reality is paramount to preventing dissatisfaction in the future. No, this isn’t all about fake news and some of the other drama that we hear about every day. This is just about checking out the real facts. Last month was really a hoot! We had Valentine’s Day, the return of NASCAR and the Olympic games to deal with and enjoy, plus the US won a bunch of medals so it’s a good thing. Everything considered, there are a lot of great things coming up on the horizon, including Bike Week in Daytona and locally, the strawberry festival in Plant City. Usually, this month is the beginning of the serious riding season, but the weather has been so warm a lot of folks are
already out on the road enjoying the ride. As I said last month, there is no better place for a biker to live than right here. Seriously, a year-long riding season and no snow rocks! However, this year it seems that in Florida spring as we know it was totally skipped and we went directly from winter into summer. Believe me, I am not complaining! Just enjoying the ride like all the rest of you. When you live here and venture out of your trailer park, or wherever you live, you will always experience new and exciting things. Once, I left here on a beautiful sunny Sunday and got on the bike for a ride. With no particular destination in mind, I just started out heading east from where I live and began enjoying the ride. Somehow, I ended up on RT60 in the middle of nowhere, and after a few hours I drank all of my bottled water and was getting a little dehydrated—not unusual when the temps are in the 80s or 90s. In a town without a name and a tavern (I can’t remember the name), I decided to stop and have a beer or whatever just to cool off for a few minutes. Maybe this would be as far as I go for the day or maybe not. I saw this place over on the left and there were several motorcycles parked. I felt like this would be a good place to go hang out because it was apparent that bikers were welcome there. Well, it turned out pretty good since there were other road-dogs who actually knew who me in the establishment, and one or two even offered to buy me a cold brew. This is the kind of camaraderie that you will find when you venture out every now and then to places unknown and destinations undecided. Our world as bikers may be a small one but all our hearts are very massive. As it turned out, I drank a couple of beers, met a few new awesome friends, and had a great time enjoying the air-conditioning and the hospitality. I realized that every day may not be as good as this one, and when all was said and done I ventured back home to savor the memory of the ride and the new people I encountered. Sadly, the next time I went out that way for whatever reason, I discovered that the place was closed, and it was another 30 miles to the next watering hole. I went there without the expectation of anything in particular but the point still remains. As bikers, we all seem to have an unspoken bond that people who don’t ride motorcycles rarely understand. It’s okay though. It seems only the best of the best are in our circle. I know that Bike Week is coming up, and I expect to see a lot of old friends there and possibly make some new ones once again. This is what our lifestyle is about.
R.I.P. Craven Moorehead, Your Words Will Live On Forever
CRAVEN
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Christian Motorcyclists Association Recently, I decided to get back on my bike, after a long time of not being in the saddle. I don’t really know how it came to pass that the bike got ignored, and began gathering dust. I think it was a combination of medical challenges, a brutally hot summer, and focusing on other things. When I did get back on the bike, my riding skills and confidence were in the toilet. I was acutely aware of the 900 pounds of machine that I was holding up, and it took a little time of acclimation to get used to it again. In order to have a more successful ride, I read some riding tips, watched some riding videos, and made sure I was well hydrated. I also went for the initial ride without my wife, as I did not want to take any chances of her getting hurt if there was a problem. I did everything I could think of to make for a safe time renewing my riding skills. I even tried very hard to keep my eyes focused on where I wanted the bike to go, not to the curb that had my attention. My mind was so focused that I missed the one major key to successful riding; I forgot to take a moment to ask for divine protection and strength on the road. I had checked into everything I could do, but forgot to
lean on Jesus’ power and strength to guide the ride! The Bible has the answer to every challenge you and I may face, if we simply remember to activate God’s blessing through prayer. The Bible teaches us, in Philippians 4:13, that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13.” I was looking in every direction and for every protection, but missed the most important one, taking my concerns to Jesus. The Bible teaches that I will be strengthened by Jesus. It also tells me that with His power leading me, I can do everything in His Will. This doesn’t mean I can do anything I may want, but it does imply that if what I am trying to do is within His Will, it will be possible. When I look back at my ride that day, I should have had confidence in the outcome because I was taking the bike God gave me to be able to go on missions of ministry that He has appointed to me; that’s in His Will! I should have called on Jesus to give me that wonderful strength and power to accomplish the task He had before me. That’s where the power of God comes alive in our lives and our ministries! One thing that is so important is your focus. Keep your focus on Jesus and He will meet your needs! If you put your focus on Jesus, His power and direction takes over and keeps the ride safe. In The Wind, Denny Dingler
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